Pacific Islands and South Korea have forged a landmark agreement aimed at bolstering cooperation on crucial matters, including climate action, ocean conservation, development finance, and regional security, following the sixth Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Seoul on December 9, 2025. This gathering represented a significant milestone, uniting all members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) for the first time alongside the PIF Secretary General, under the direction of South Korea’s Foreign Minister and the Solomon Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka.
The discussion revolved around the theme “Partnership for a Resilient, Peaceful, and Prosperous Pacific,” highlighting Korea’s growing commitment to Pacific nations and its adherence to regional principles. The meeting celebrated the elevation of Korea–Pacific relations to summit level in 2023, reaffirming Korea’s ongoing support for the 2050 Strategy and Pacific-led development initiatives.
Pacific ministers recognized Korea’s Official Development Assistance as essential, noting its alignment with local priorities and the 2030 Agenda. They particularly lauded Korea’s efforts in building capacities in vital areas, including fisheries, digital transformation, and public health. The ministers united in their resolve to tackle climate change, addressing the unique challenges faced by Pacific Small Island Developing States. They underscored the importance of utilizing the UN Multidimensional Vulnerability Index to enhance access to development finance and concessional funding avenues.
Gratitude was expressed for Korea’s ongoing contributions to the ROK–PIF Cooperation Fund, which is set to support five significant projects aimed at improving climate prediction services, marine spatial planning, monitoring illegal fishing, and constructing a fisheries research vessel. The urgency for global action on climate issues was a focal point, with Korea committing to initiatives aimed at sea-level rise, early warning systems, and climate finance. Additionally, Korea announced its 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution and confirmed participation in the Powering Past Coal Alliance.
The ministers acknowledged the Pacific Resilience Facility as a vital mechanism for addressing climate finance shortfalls, with Korea expressing its willingness to contribute, pending domestic approvals. They also supported the proposal to host a Pre-COP31 in a Pacific island nation, highlighting Australia’s presidency of COP31 as a significant opportunity to amplify Pacific voices.
Korea’s constructive role within the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) was noted, alongside its commitment to combating illegal fishing. Environmental concerns, particularly regarding marine pollution from plastics and radioactive waste, were addressed, stressing the importance of transparency and consultation.
Furthermore, the meeting reaffirmed the need for collaboration on people-to-people exchanges, regional security, and the fight against transnational crime, including the growing threat of synthetic drugs in the region. Ministers reiterated their commitment to a rules-based international order and peaceful dispute resolution. Korea sought support from Pacific nations for its candidacy for the International Court of Justice in 2026 and laid out plans to co-host the UN Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028.
In conclusion, the ministers agreed to continue the Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the Senior Officials’ Meeting on a biennial basis, expressing their appreciation to South Korea for hosting this pivotal meeting in Seoul. This collaboration showcases a hopeful and constructive future for both the Pacific Islands and South Korea, reflecting a strong commitment to shared aspirations amid a constantly evolving global landscape.